Jim Avila, the veteran ABC News senior correspondent, has passed away at the age of 70 after a long illness, ABC News confirmed on November 13, 2025. The announcement was made by ABC News Live anchor Diane Macedo, who shared the network’s condolences and highlighted Avila’s decades-long career in journalism.

A Legacy in Journalism

Born July 26, 1955, Avila dedicated nearly two decades to ABC News, primarily based in Los Angeles. He specialized in politics, justice, law, and consumer investigations, earning widespread respect for his thorough reporting and commitment to journalistic integrity.

Avila also served as a correspondent for 20/20, reporting with both depth and urgency. Notably, he covered White House affairs and broke the news of the U.S. and Cuba reopening diplomatic relations, earning the prestigious Merriman Smith Award from the White House Correspondents Association in 2015 for his coverage of U.S. contractor Alan Gross’ release from Cuban custody after five years.

The WHCA praised Avila’s work, stating: “From tight, breathless morning reports where every word was news, to relaxed man-on-the-street evening interviews, Avila told the whole story on merciless deadlines. That’s the sort of excellence in presidential news coverage under deadline pressure that the Merriman Smith Award is meant to honor.”

Career Highlights and Contributions

After leaving ABC News, Avila continued his reporting career at an ABC affiliate in San Diego, where he served as a senior investigative reporter, covering a wide range of stories with depth, fairness, and insight.

Throughout his life, Avila faced health challenges with courage. He received a kidney transplant donated by his brother, demonstrating resilience in the face of personal adversity.

ABC News president Almin Karamehmedovic expressed condolences, saying: “We send our heartfelt condolences to his family, including his three children, Jamie, Jenny, and Evan, and we thank him for his many contributions and unwavering commitment to seeking out the truth.”

Remembering Jim Avila

Jim Avila’s career exemplified the highest standards of journalism, from breaking international news to covering complex legal and political issues in the U.S. His colleagues remember him as a dedicated reporter who combined tenacity, fairness, and compassion in every story he told.

His passing leaves a significant void in the world of broadcast journalism, but his legacy of excellence and integrity will continue to inspire reporters for generations to come.